Montana State University’s President, Waded Cruzado, announced her retirement, revealing that the forthcoming school year will be her last in charge of the flagship campus in Bozeman, effective June 30. In a letter, Cruzado expressed gratitude for the opportunities and achievements of the past years and shared her plans to retire, citing a desire to spend time with her grandchildren and family as an immediate priority.

Throughout her tenure, Cruzado oversaw significant growth at the Bozeman campus, with an increase in student enrollment and freshman retention rates. She led various construction projects, including the establishment of new buildings and facilities. Cruzado was instrumental in securing funding for the creation of Gallatin College, a two-year campus affiliated with MSU, emphasizing equal access to education for all students.

Despite her accomplishments, Cruzado’s term faced challenges, with ongoing federal investigations into complaints of harassment among LGBTQ and minority students at the university. In her retirement announcement, Cruzado reflected on her upbringing in Puerto Rico and the importance of education in her life, drawing parallels to the land-grant status of the institutions she has served.

Following Cruzado’s retirement news, University of Montana President Seth Bodnar and Montana Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian commended her leadership and commitment to higher education. Christian will lead the search for Cruzado’s successor, working with a committee to select candidates and ensure a smooth transition for the university.

As Montana State University prepares for a new chapter, the legacy of President Cruzado’s transformative leadership leaves a lasting impact on the campus community and higher education in the state.